Welcome to this week’s Orbit Travel Brief.
Your snapshot of the latest travel advisories, airline updates and key developments across the travel industry, helping you stay informed and in control of your travel programme.
Travel across the Middle East faced disruption last week following a security incident at Kuwait International Airport, where a drone strike impacted a passenger terminal. As a precautionary measure, airspace over Kuwait and Bahrain was temporarily closed, resulting in operational disruptions across the region.
The incident had the potential to affect major transit hubs including Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi, with some airlines implementing schedule changes, rerouting and delays while airspace restrictions were assessed.
Orbit issued a travel alert to clients with travellers in the region and continues to monitor developments. While operations have largely stabilised, travellers should continue to monitor flight schedules and airline advisories when travelling through the Middle East.
Sri Lanka has waived tourist visa fees for Australian passport holders, making it more affordable to visit the popular Indian Ocean destination.
Australians can now obtain a free 30-day Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), saving the previous US$50 visa fee. Travellers must still apply for the ETA before departure, as facilities for obtaining one on arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport remain limited.
There’s still time to enter this exclusive Qantas Business Rewards promotion available through the CT Partners network (that’s us!).
Eligible businesses can go into the draw to win a share of 500,000 Qantas Points plus Gold Frequent Flyer status, with every eligible Qantas booking made through Orbit World Travel counting as an entry. The more eligible bookings you make before 30 June 2026, the more chances you have to win.
Qantas has completed the maiden test flight of its Airbus A350-1000ULR, marking a significant milestone for Project Sunrise.
The aircraft will eventually enable non-stop flights from Sydney to London and New York, with flight times of up to 22 hours. The successful test flight is the first stage of the aircraft’s certification programme ahead of its expected delivery in 2027.
Taiwan-based STARLUX Airlines has confirmed plans to launch flights between Sydney and Taipei in early 2027, marking the carrier’s first Australian service.
The premium airline is expected to operate the route with its Airbus A350 fleet, providing travellers with another high-end option for travel between Australia and Asia, along with onward connections throughout North America and Europe.
Etihad Airways has expanded its Global Chauffeur service, adding more than 20 new destinations across Europe, Asia, North America and Australia.
Available on new Business Deluxe fare bookings made from 1 June 2026, the service now includes destinations such as Sydney, Athens, Frankfurt, Barcelona, Kuala Lumpur and Washington D.C. Melbourne is also expected to join the programme later this year.
The complimentary chauffeur service is designed to provide eligible travellers with a seamless door-to-airport transfer experience as part of their journey.
Air Canada is considering a return to Melbourne as part of its future long-haul expansion plans, supported by a new fleet of Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.
While no launch date has been confirmed, Melbourne has been identified as a potential destination as the airline expands its international network, potentially providing travellers with another direct option to North America.
Brisbane Airport has opened a new bicycle parking facility at its Domestic Terminal, providing secure end-of-trip facilities for staff, passengers and visitors.
Located within the P2 Carpark, the facility includes secure parking for bicycles, e-bikes and e-scooters, along with lockers, change rooms and a bike repair station. The project supports Brisbane Airport’s commitment to improving connectivity and encouraging more sustainable transport options.
Sydney Airport is set to open a new dining precinct, The Rocks, at its T2 Domestic terminal in July, bringing together brands including MoVida, ST. ALi and The Taphouse.
The new precinct forms part of Sydney Airport’s broader terminal enhancement programme and will provide travellers with more dining options before departure.
To recognise National Reconciliation Week, Adelaide Airport has partnered with Milpinti Indigenous Art Gallery to showcase a new exhibition celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists.
Running until 24 June, the exhibition features contemporary artworks that share stories of culture, connection and Country. Travellers can view the collection throughout the terminal, including around Gates 14, 16 and 18, as well as within airport retail display spaces.
Qantas has closed its Hobart Qantas Club lounge as construction progresses on Hobart Airport’s $200 million terminal redevelopment.
The airline has confirmed an all-new lounge will open in early 2027, featuring significantly more seating, upgraded dining, additional power outlets and runway views. The new space is expected to increase lounge capacity by around 50 per cent and showcase local Tasmanian produce.
During the redevelopment, eligible travellers will have access to temporary lounge facilities and light refreshments before their flight.
World Environment Day on 5 June highlighted the growing role of data and technology in helping organisations better understand the environmental impact of business travel.
Modern travel reporting platforms now provide detailed emissions tracking and sustainability insights, helping organisations measure travel-related emissions, support reporting requirements and make more informed travel decisions.
Wendy Wu Tours has launched its Winter Escape Sale, offering savings of up to $2,000 per person across all destinations and tours, plus a $99 per person deposit on eligible bookings.
With over 1,600 departures, you’ll find something amongst Japan’s autumn maples, China’s ancient wonders, India’s golden palaces, Southeast Asia’s warm shores, Latin America’s dramatic landscapes… and more. Offer available until 30 June 2026.
Speak with our Travel Advisors for more information today. 1300 799 629
If you would like support with upcoming travel, or to understand how these updates may impact your travel programme, our team is here to help.
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